
Looking for the ease and comfort of a car with the power and safety of an SUV? Look no further than Buick’s extra-small crossover SUV, the all-new 2022 Encore. While this vehicle is one of the smallest SUVs on the market, it boasts an impressive cabin space and rear seat fold that allows for just the right amount of cargo.
Here’s what one of Buick’s best-selling SUVs has to offer in 2022.
What’s New
The most significant change in the Encore this year is the engine. Powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged inline-three, this small but mighty crossover brings 155hp with 177 lb-ft of torque - an increase of a whopping 17hp and 29 lb-ft of torque from previous years!
While Buick has cut trim levels down for the Encore to only the Preferred, expect to see new standard features such as an electric heater and driver and front passenger seat-back map pockets. The Encore also comes with a 6-speed automatic FWD, with available AWD.
There is some confusion with the Encore GX as the next trim level - however, the Encore and Encore GX are categorized as two different vehicles because they operate on separate platforms and different powertrains.
This article focuses on the smaller Buick Encore Preferred trim level.
Standard Features
2022 Buick Encore comes with:
- Keyless entry
- Push-button ignition
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- 18-inch wheels
- Halogen headlights
- 7-inch touchscreen infotainment display
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Smartphone integration with wireless connection
- 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
- SiriusXM satellite radio
- Audio system with 6 speakers
Available Features
The Encore can be fitted with additional optional features, including:
- Safety Package I - Includes a 120V power outlet and blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert
- Safety Package II - Includes front and rear parking sensors, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and automatic rain-sensing wipers
- Sunroof
- Remote start
- Bose Premium Audio system with 7 speakers
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The Buick Encore is known for its fuel efficiency, one of the reasons this vehicle has ranked one of the top-selling crossover SUVs in the market. With a new engine and upgraded fuel system, the 2022 Buick Encore continues to improve its highway fuel economy year after year.
The EPA provides the following ratings:
- 2022 Encore FWD - 24mpg for city and 32mpg for highway / 3.7gals per 100 miles
- 2022 Encore AWD - 23mpg for city and 30mp for highway / 3.8 gals per 100 miles
Performance and Safety
The Encore provides the space and safety of a traditional SUV with the maneuverability of a car. Crossovers are designed on car platforms, which are easier to drive through smaller spaces and are able to stop more quickly because of their smaller size.
Drivers and passengers alike can expect a smooth ride with the 2022 Encore, equipped with power steering, ride and handling suspension, stability control system, and traction control. Even without the optional safety features, this year’s model has received the best rating yet from the NHTSA with a 5-Star score.
Interior Features
Affordability meets premium design with the Encore’s flush-mounted infotainment touchscreen, beautiful glossy black trim and jewel-toned accents, soft-touch areas on the dash pad and armrests, and high seats for ultra comfort. You can expect control knobs that are simple and straightforward, all adding to the ease and functionality of the overall design.
In closing, the 2022 Buick Enclave is perfect for the driver looking for an uncomplicated ride, smart engineering, top-class safety, and modern technology - all bundled in a practical vehicle that rivals its competition.